AN estimated 3,000 of Halton Council’s 4,740-strong workforce are taking part in a two-day strike as part of a national protest organised by the public sector union Unison.

The action has resulted in the closure or partial closure of 17 of the borough’s schools due to the loss of crucial non-teaching staff, while Direct Link offices, libraries and community centres were also closed.

Union bosses say Halton is the only council in the whole of the North West with its entire refuse collection department on strike. The council has set-up an emergency helpline for residents but said bin collections will now be delayed until next week. The helpline number is 0151 907 8363.